[2025 Suzhou Attraction] Travel Guide for Suzhou Museum West (Updated Feb)

🚗 The Suzhou Museum West Wing is a branch of the Suzhou Museum. On September 25, 2021, the Suzhou Museum West Wing opened for trial operation. Located in Shishan Square, Gaoxin District, Suzhou, the West Wing was designed by GMP Architekten, a leading German architectural firm. With a total floor area of 48,365 square meters and an exhibition area of 13,391 square meters, the West Wing exhibits over 2,100 cultural relics, including jade cong from the Liangzhu period, Tang-Five Dynasties gold-leafed paper manuscript of the Lotus Sutra, Song Jun kiln drum-studded three-legged washbasin, Yuan dynasty celadon loquat tribute, Shunzhi period celestial maiden scattering flowers bowl, and other precious relics. The West Wing's architecture draws inspiration from the street and alley layout of Jiangnan water towns, inheriting classic elements while showcasing distinct regional characteristics. Permanent exhibition halls include the General History Exhibition Hall, Suzhou Craftsmanship Hall, Exploration Experience Hall, International Cooperation Hall, and Suzhou Color Life Hall. 🚗 Features The Suzhou Museum West Wing offers a wide range of content. In addition to the "Pure Jiangnan: Suzhou History Exhibition" hall and the Exploration Experience Hall, the second floor houses the "Suzhou Craftsmanship Hall", which retraces the development of Suzhou's handicrafts from the Song and Yuan dynasties to the present. The second floor also houses the "International Cooperation Hall", which exhibits 218 sets of ancient Roman relics from the British Museum, marking the first time that the British Museum's collection of such relics has been exhibited in Asia. The third floor houses the "Suzhou Painting and Calligraphy: Collection of Paintings and Calligraphy from All Dynasties" exhibition. It exhibits 58 sets of exquisite paintings and calligraphy from the Song dynasty to the modern era. The first basement floor houses the Suzhou Color Life Hall, which exudes the ancient charm of Jiangnan. 🚗 Now, the West Wing of the museum is open to the public without an appointment, making it more convenient for visitors. There are many exhibitions inside, and the first basement floor is suitable for bringing children. The staff are very friendly. The exhibitions are very interesting, and the whole venue is very large. It is recommended to allow more time. It is a bit far from the subway station, so it is more convenient to drive.

Suzhou Museum West is usually open by appointment, use the simple app to book your free ticket to the museum. They have many exhibitions on Suzhou's history, including and incredible tapestry of ancient Suzhou. They also have collaborative exhibitions, like their work with the Brisith Museum sharing ancient Roman artifacts. The architecture of the museum is an exhibition in itself. It's a very vast and beautiful building, with lots of angles to view. #awesomepic #suzhou#本地遊

When we think of Suzhou, we think of the leisurely life of listening to Suzhou Pingtan while drinking tea. Friends sit on Ming-style chairs, playing with walnut carvings, jade, and Xiangfei folding fans. On the second floor of the Suzhou Museum West, you can immerse yourself in the works of Suzhou craftsmen, from Ming and Qing dynasty collections to modern works. Suzhou Museum West

Winter vacation in Suzhou, this 2-day itinerary is a must-have! Experience the charm of the ancient city of Suzhou, don't miss it! . 🗓Itinerary: DAY1️⃣: Tianping Mountain Climb Tianping Mountain, feel the magnificence and tranquility of nature, and enjoy the beauty of the mountains and forests. DAY2️⃣: Suzhou Museum -> Suzhou Museum West Visit Suzhou Museum to appreciate the charm of Jiangnan culture, then head to Suzhou Museum West to experience the fusion of art and history. . Must-see attractions: Suzhou Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 204, Northeast Street, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province - Opening hours: Tuesday-Sunday 09:00-17:00; Monday closed all day - Duration: 2-4 hours - A beautiful building that combines the traditional style of Suzhou gardens, not only rich in history and culture, but also full of the charm of the water town of Jiangnan. Tianping Mountain ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Lingtian Road, Wuzhong District, Suzhou - Opening hours: 08:00-17:00 - Duration: 1 day - The mountain is covered with red maples, and the scenery is picturesque in autumn. There are also many strange rocks, making it a great place for hiking and sightseeing. Suzhou Museum West ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 399, Changjiang Road, Huqiu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province - Opening hours: Monday closed all day; Tuesday-Sunday 09:00-17:00 - Duration: 2-3 hours - The museum combines the history and traditional crafts of Wu, making it a great place to learn about the history and culture of Suzhou. . Tips: 🍃 You don't have to buy specialties in scenic spots, the prices in the city are more affordable~ ✈️ In addition to taking a taxi, you can also take the subway to the airport, which is fast and economical! 🍜 Want to eat authentic Suzhou cuisine? Go to the small restaurants frequented by locals, the taste is more authentic! 🎎 Respect local customs, avoid making loud noises in public places, and enjoy the quiet Jiangnan style~ . 🎉Suzhou, waiting for you to explore and enjoy a wonderful time!

The exhibition is divided into three sections: "Red Chamber and Grand View," "Wood and Stone, Gold and Jade," and "Illusory Land and Great Wilderness." It features 100 paintings from the Qing Dynasty artist Sun Wen's "Complete Illustrations of Dream of the Red Chamber," as well as 53 (sets of) cultural relics related to "Dream of the Red Chamber," including clothing, textiles, stationery, and miscellaneous items. The exhibition is designed as a "garden tour," guiding visitors to explore the ideological and artistic achievements of this literary masterpiece.

Suzhou Museum has been a popular museum since its opening. Every year, the museum holds heavyweight special exhibitions, making it difficult to make a reservation. Even if you successfully make a reservation, the experience is greatly reduced by the crowds. Thus, Suzhou Museum West was born. No reservation is required, and you can enter the museum directly with your ID card. The underground parking lot is also large enough. In addition to the permanent exhibition halls showcasing the long history and splendid culture of Suzhou, the special exhibitions at Suzhou Museum West are also very attractive. The recent Assyrian special exhibition is one example.

The Suzhou Museum West Hall is currently hosting a special exhibition, "Life and Faith: A Special Exhibition of Han Dynasty Art," which focuses on the life and aspirations of ordinary people in the Han Dynasty. The Boshan incense burner is shrouded in clouds, and life is always hard, but the ancestors have written "smile in the face of adversity" into their genes. This special exhibition brings together many fine Han Dynasty artifacts from the Hebei Museum, Guangzhou Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology, Hanjing Emperor Yangling Museum, Xianyang Museum, Chengdu Museum, Mianyang Museum, Jiaozuo Museum, Xuzhou Museum, and Xuzhou Han Terracotta Warriors Museum, recreating the hard work, warmth, and abundance of the Han Dynasty people's daily life, as well as their imagination of the universe and their interpretation of life.

After coming down from Lion Mountain, head to Suzhou Museum West and go straight to the third floor to see the Han Dynasty Art Exhibition that you missed last time. The pottery houses, wells, granaries, stoves, and various wine vessels, water vessels, food vessels, and lamps unearthed from Han tombs vividly recreate the daily life of the Han people. The Boshan Furnace, jade face cover, money tree, solution bottle, terracotta warriors, and singing and dancing figurines all reflect the beliefs and artistic pursuits of the Han Dynasty. Han Dynasty Terracotta Warriors: Terracotta Warriors of Yang Mausoleum of Han Emperor Jing, Terracotta Warriors of Yangjiawan in Xianyang, and Terracotta Warriors of Lion Mountain in Xuzhou are all on display together. A large landscape scroll by contemporary artist Liu Dan is on display alongside the Boshan Furnace, one of the treasures of the Hebei Museum. When I was looking at the Boshan Furnace, a young man was praising it, saying that it became popular because of Black Wukong, and that when it was exhibited in Shanghai, it was so crowded that it was impossible to get in. But here in Suzhou Museum, it has a whole exhibition hall to itself, and there are hardly any people, so you can look at it as much as you like.

The long weekend is here! Want to explore Suzhou? This guide is all you need! A two-day tour to help you easily check out the beautiful scenery and delicious food of Suzhou! / 🎉Itinerary: Day 1: Tianping Mountain Stroll through Tianping Mountain and enjoy the natural scenery. The red maple leaves 🍁 and the clear spring water flowing over the rocks form a beautiful autumn picture. Day 2: Suzhou Museum—Suzhou Museum West Visit Suzhou Museum and experience the charm of Jiangnan culture. Then head to the West Museum to appreciate different artistic styles. A museum tour is a feast of culture and history. 🏺🎨 / Must-see attractions: Suzhou Museum ⭐⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 204, Dongbei Street, Gusu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province - Opening hours: Sep 2–Dec 31, Tue–Sun, 9:00 am–5:00 pm - Duration: 2–4 hours - A museum that combines the style of Suzhou gardens, exquisite and beautiful, is a good place to experience the beauty of the intertwining of tradition and modernity. Tianping Mountain ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: Lingtian Road, Wuzhong District, Suzhou - Opening hours: 8:00 am–5:00 pm - Duration: 1 day - The red maple leaves in autumn are like fire, and the strange rocks stand in great numbers. It is a good place for climbing and sightseeing, and every step is a beautiful picture. Suzhou Museum West ⭐⭐⭐ - Address: No. 399, Changjiang Road, Huqiu District, Suzhou, Jiangsu Province - Opening hours: Tue–Sun, 9:00 am–5:00 pm (closed on Mondays) - Duration: 2–3 hours - Explore the long history of Wu and experience the unique craftsmanship. This is the intersection of culture and art. / Tips: - Specialty prices: The prices of Suzhou silk and garden souvenirs vary, so it is recommended to compare prices before buying. 🧐 - Airport transportation: You can choose the subway or taxi from the airport to the city center. The subway is more economical and avoids the risk of traffic jams. 🚇 - Food: Don't miss Suzhou noodles and squirrel fish, authentic flavors that foodies must try! 🍜🐟 - Photo spots: The classical style of the Humble Administrator's Garden and Pingjiang Road makes them great places for photos. Remember to wear beautiful clothes for the photos! 📸👗 / Suzhou, a city you don't want to leave once you come, may you find your own peace and beauty here. ❤️

I went to the Suzhou Museum West Branch to see the last special exhibition of the year, "Life and Faith: The Art of the Han Dynasty." The title is a bit grand, but the content is quite empty. The exhibits are mainly "sponsored" by two museums: the Guangzhou Institute of Cultural Relics and Archaeology and the Xuzhou Museum. There are very few exhibits from other museums. The highlight of the exhibition is the "Gilt Bronze Boshan Censer," one of the three treasures of the Hebei Museum. A censer in a hall, with few exhibits and a large space, is quite extravagant. However, this exhibition features many Western Han and Eastern Han pottery buildings that are rarely seen in other museums, and several of them are considered "luxury homes." There are only one or two Han Dynasty pictorial bricks, and the "Peaceful Life" pictorial brick is a replica. The Han Dynasty figurines are not very impressive, perhaps because I saw too many wonderful ones at the Xuzhou Museum a few weeks ago. However, the "Splits Figurine" (Western Han painted cavalry figurine) from the Yangling Museum of Emperor Jing of Han is a highlight. 👀Must-see exhibits: 1️⃣Western Han Gilt Bronze Boshan Censer: The most luxurious Boshan censer in history, on display until January 12 (Figures 8-11) 2️⃣Western Han Five-story Painted Pottery Granary: Eastern Han luxury home (Figures 12-13) 3️⃣Western Han Four-linked Ding of Princess Guantao, daughter of Emperor Wen of Han (Figure 15) 4️⃣Western Han Yangshuo Four-year Bronze Bell: One of the standard instruments for studying Western Han measurement (Figure 16) 5️⃣Western Han Yangjiawan Terracotta Warriors (Figures 5-6) 6️⃣Western Han Yangling Pottery Figurines (Figures 2-4) 7️⃣Eastern Han Bronze Money Tree (Figure 17) 8️⃣Eastern Han Pottery Storyteller Figurine (Figure 7) In short, it's not a special exhibition worth going out of your way to see, but if you're already at the Suzhou Museum West Branch, you can check it out.

Suzhou Museum West Hall "Assyrian Relics from the British Museum - Assyrian Kings: Ashurbanipal" is full of mysterious exoticism. 🌟Highlights: Many of the reliefs highlight the grandeur of the Assyrian court and royal landscape, and these images from nearly 3,000 years ago are still stunning to look at. 👍Top recommendations: Bronze art of Phoenicians carrying tribute, Ashurbanipal banquet scene relief... large in size, finely carved. ❤Recommended reason: The Assyrian civilization was in the same period as the Zhou Dynasty in China (1046-256 BC), and you can see the differences between Chinese and Western civilizations. 📍Detailed address: International Cooperation Hall, 2nd Floor, Suzhou Museum West Hall. There are also several large reliefs on display in the lobby on the first floor. 🕙Exhibition time: Until August 4, 2025. Suzhou Museum West Hall opening hours: Tuesday to Sunday, 9:00-17:00, last entry at 16:00. 💖Free admission, no reservation required.

"Life and Belief: The Art of the Han Dynasty" is on display at the Suzhou Museum West Pavilion, 3rd Floor Temporary Exhibition Hall. 🌟Highlights: Exhibits include pottery houses, money trees, wine vessels, water vessels, food vessels, lamps, and stoves unearthed from Han tombs, which truly recreate the diligence, warmth, and abundance of daily life in the Han Dynasty. 👍Top Recommendation: The last section features a single bronze Boshan censer with gold inlay, with a diameter of 15.5 cm and a height of 26 cm. This censer was unearthed from the Han tomb in Mancheng, Hebei in 1968. It is exquisitely crafted, beautifully decorated, world-renowned, and dazzling. 🕙Exhibition Time: Until March 9, 2025.

2024 is coming to an end, and the last special exhibition of the Suzhou Museum West Pavilion has also unveiled its mystery. With the theme of the life and beliefs of the Han Dynasty, it showcases a unified dynasty that lasted for more than 400 years. From the early years, when society was in decline and everything was waiting to be done, to the implementation of Huang-Lao philosophy and the rest of the people, to the rule of Emperor Wen and Emperor Jing and the strengthening of the country by Emperor Wu, it finally laid the foundation for the brilliant art of Chinese civilization. The exhibition starts from two parts: life and beliefs. Through pottery houses, pottery wells, pottery warehouses, pottery stoves, and various wine vessels, water vessels, food vessels, and lamps and stoves unearthed from Han tombs, it reveals the true appearance of the Han people 2,000 years ago from different levels, recreating the diligence, warmth, and abundance of the Han people in their daily lives. In addition, the exhibition also brings together the three major terracotta warriors of the Han Dynasty: the Terracotta Warriors of Yangling Mausoleum of Emperor Jing of Han, the Terracotta Warriors of Yangjiawan in Xianyang, and the Terracotta Warriors of Shizishan in Xuzhou. The exhibition also specially invited the contemporary famous artist Liu Dan to create a huge landscape scroll, echoing the ancient art and history, and through the metaphor of the Boshan furnace mountains and rivers, transformed into a "landscape world" beyond reality. 🔴Exhibition name: Life and Beliefs: The Art of the Han Dynasty 👁️Exhibition period: December 15, 2024–March 9, 2025 🚏Exhibition location: 3rd Floor, Suzhou Museum West Pavilion 📍 Venue address: No. 399, Changjiang Road, High-tech Zone, Huqiu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province 🕙Venue opening hours: 09:00–17:00 (closed on Mondays) 🚗Venue transportation guide: 🚇: Line 1, Shizishan Station, Exit 3A, walk 600–700 meters inside and outside the station 🚌: Bus 38/33/313, Yuhuayuan 👍Must-see exhibits: Boshan furnace, jade face cover, money tree, solution bottle, three major terracotta warriors of the Han Dynasty... 🎟️Ticket information: Free🆓 🏝️Reservation guide: No advance reservation is required for the West Pavilion

Hey girls! Suzhou is beautiful in winter. How to spend two days there? Check out this super practical guide and enjoy your trip to Suzhou! -------------------- 🚩Itinerary: Day 1: Humble Administrator's Garden -> Suzhou Museum West -> Pingjiang Road Historical Block -> Hanshan Temple -> Tiger Hill Scenic Area Enjoy the beauty of classical gardens, feel the artistic atmosphere of the museum, walk through the historical block, listen to the bell of the ancient temple, and finally climb Tiger Hill to overlook the panoramic view of Suzhou. Day 2: Zhouzhuang -> Twin Bridges Visit Zhouzhuang, a water town in Jiangnan, to enjoy the charm of the ancient town, and walk on the Twin Bridges to feel the charm of the water town and the tranquility of time. -------------------- Places to visit: 🌿 Humble Administrator's Garden: Water and mountains, a different view at every step, as if you are walking into a classical painting. 🏯 Hanshan Temple: An ancient temple with a history of thousands of years, the bell of blessing rings through the sky, and the famous inscriptions in the stele gallery are fascinating. 🌊 Zhouzhuang: An ancient town surrounded by water, with small bridges and flowing water, where you can feel the charm of the Ming and Qing dynasties. ⛰️ Tiger Hill Scenic Area: The cliffs and ravines hide the beauty of humanity, and the mystery of the leaning tower awaits your exploration. 🏞️ Pingjiang Road Historical Block: The ancient streets and alleys, the small bridges and flowing water reflect the deep old houses, and time seems to flow backward. -------------------- Travel tips: - Photo spots: Suzhou gardens are beautiful, don't miss the elegant scenery of Humble Administrator's Garden and Lingering Garden! 📸 - Local customs: Experience Suzhou Pingtan, feel the charm of the soft Wu dialect, and immerse yourself in the local culture. 🎭 - Specialty prices: Silk and Su embroidery are Suzhou specialties. Compare prices and choose the most cost-effective ones. 🛍️ - Snack suggestions: Try the Squirrel Fish on Guanqian Street, it's unforgettable! 🍲 - Travel preparation: Suzhou is rainy, so remember to bring an umbrella and wear comfortable shoes to visit the gardens. 🌂 -------------------- Suzhou is a city you don't want to leave once you come. We hope this guide will make your trip to Suzhou more wonderful! 🌟 Remember to save it for your next trip!

I've been to Suzhou Museum West so many times, and I always discover something new! Here are the top 10 highlights of Suzhou Museum West for your reference! 👉 Wu King Yumei Sword Although it is not the Wu King Fuchai Sword, the Yumei Sword is also a treasure of the museum and worth seeing. The museum has a special area dedicated to its introduction! 👉 Ashurbanipal This exhibition will be open until May next year, so you still have time to see it! In addition to Ashurbanipal, there are many interactive experiences, and you can rent glasses at the museum to watch! 👉 Suzhou-style Furniture This is an exhibition with distinctive Suzhou-style cultural and craft features. I like the presentation of the hall name inside, and the mobile opera stage is interesting! 👉 Zigang Jade I have heard of the Zigang Cup competition before, and this visit to the museum is a good opportunity to learn more about Zigang and the jade craftsmanship of that time! 👉 Southern Cage Fun A birdcage can also be full of artistic atmosphere. Suzhou is the production center of southern cages, which shows that Suzhou was also a city full of fun in history! 👉 Suzhou-style Folding Fan The Yushui Tongzuo Pavilion in the Humble Administrator's Garden is a vivid representation of Suzhou folding fans, and you can't miss the fan-making skills when you visit the museum! 👉 Taohuawu New Year Pictures When you think of Taohuawu, you think of Tang Bohu, but you may overlook the Taohuawu woodblock New Year pictures, which are famous worldwide and represent the southern Taohuawu and northern Yangliuqing. How can you not love them! 👉 Suzhou-style Carving Suzhou carving includes jade carving, wood carving, bamboo carving, and other techniques, all of which can be found in the museum! 👉 Ming and Qing Porcelain The museum also has many Ming and Qing porcelain exhibits. Although Suzhou is not a porcelain production center, the Jiangnan style here is incomplete without porcelain! 👉 Jiangnan Kesi This is quite impressive. Compared to Su embroidery, Kesi surprised me more. There is a display of Kesi techniques inside, and this craft really needs to be well inherited. It is also the pinnacle of Suzhou craftsmanship!

1️⃣ No reservation is required for Suzhou Museum West Pavilion, which is really convenient. It's perfect for people like me who don't like planning and are always ready to go! 2️⃣ The target audience on the B1 floor is mainly children, and it feels like a good place to take kids. The kids are playing inside and sweating, while the parents are waiting outside. 3️⃣ The first floor is the General History Exhibition Hall, which displays the history and culture of Suzhou and Jiangnan in four chapters along a timeline. It is said that there are more than 2,000 cultural relics on display, but unfortunately, I just took a quick look. 4️⃣ On the second floor, there is the Suzhou Craft Museum on one side and the Ashurbanipal Special Exhibition on the other side (forgive me for not being able to tell the direction). The Craft Museum is divided into three parts: carving, cutting, and embroidery, mainly telling the origin and evolution of Suzhou crafts. I really like the scene aesthetics of this exhibition hall, which is super photogenic! 5️⃣ When I visited the special exhibition and the painting and calligraphy hall on the third floor, I was a little tired and anxious to eat. I don't know how long this special exhibition will last, but I want to take my mom there again. 6️⃣ PS: I rented a pair of AR glasses and an audio guide. The glasses are for video explanations, and I stayed in the same place all the time, which was a bit awkward. I personally prefer audio guides, so choose according to your own situation~ Suzhou Museum West Pavilion

On June 28th, I visited the Suzhou Museum West Pavilion again and found many changes. People planning to visit the West Pavilion during the summer vacation should take note‼️ ✅ The Suzhou Museum West Pavilion has canceled the reservation system, and you no longer need to bring an ID card. ✅ Food and drinks are not allowed inside, only mineral water is permitted. Bags can be stored in lockers, but the number of lockers is limited. I waited for about 10 minutes today. It might be worse during holidays. If you drive, store your food in the car in advance. ✅ The dinosaur fossil exhibition has ended, and a new space exhibition is ongoing. There are many space-themed cultural creations, and you can stamp space stamps yourself. There are about twenty of them, so remember to bring a notebook. This space exhibition is free, while the space exhibition at the Suzhou Bay Digital Museum I just visited cost me 65💰. The West Pavilion offers great value for money. ✅ The corridor and slide where children could run around are under maintenance, which is a pity. Little Tao loves this place the most. ✅ I found many more cultural creations. This sword of King Fuchai of Wu is so cute that I couldn't resist buying two, along with two other small cultural creations. I didn't spend money on tickets, but I spent over 200 yuan on cultural creations. ✅ The VR experience is also new, costing 80 per person and requires queuing. Older kids will definitely like it. It's so cool. ✅ There's a new reading corner with many books for all age groups. Little Tao picked a few books, and I had to read each one more than three times before he was willing to leave. If you don't know where to go during the summer vacation, the Suzhou Museum West Pavilion is a great place to gain knowledge, escape the heat, and it's free. It's such a great place to visit...

🏛️ Suzhou Museum is divided into the main museum and the west museum. The main museum is located at 204 Northeast Street, Gusu District, Suzhou, and the west museum is located at 399 Changjiang Road, Huqiu District, Suzhou. The two museums are quite far apart. The main museum is mainly for architectural style, while the west museum is mainly for collections and cultural relics. The west museum is suitable for bringing children. 🎨 Suzhou Museum is the masterpiece of Mr. I.M. Pei, who combined light, shadow, lines, and architecture to the extreme. The entire museum itself is a work of art, integrating Jiangnan, landscape, and gardens into one. Everywhere you look, there is a window with a view, and every step you take offers a different scene. Every casual photo is a masterpiece. The museum's exit is connected to the Prince Zhong's Mansion, which you can slowly experience if you have time. 🚇 Transportation: Take Metro Line 4 to Beisita Station, then walk about 800 meters to reach the museum. If it's a weekend or holiday, it's not recommended to take the bus, drive, or take a taxi, as it will be very congested. 🎟️ Tickets No tickets are required. You need to make a reservation in advance on your phone and enter with your ID card. Be sure to book in advance! In advance! In advance!! 🧳 Luggage Storage: You can store your luggage for free for 3 hours at the Visitor Service Center before your reservation time. ⏰ Opening Hours Tuesday to Friday 9:00-20:00 Closed on Mondays! The Suzhou Museum at night is also beautiful, you can visit in the evening! 📸 Check-in Spots: • The "Suzhou Museum" sign at the entrance • Courtyard rockery, koi pond • Hexagonal windows • Two large glass windows, one with a bamboo forest outside and the other with a hazy courtyard 🚫 Notes 1. No coffee or milk tea, no snacks 2. No selfie sticks, if you bring one, keep it in your bag and don't take it out 3. Do not use flash when taking photos

💖Recommended Reason: This time, I came to Suzhou for a concert and took the opportunity to visit the Suzhou Museum (West Pavilion), which I had been wanting to see for a long time. This exhibition is the first in the 'Treasures of the World' series, which aims to display private collections in cultural halls. The 60 pieces/sets of exhibits are all from the Xike Old Residence collection, showcasing the history of literati paintings spanning five centuries. It's well worth a visit, highly recommended 👀Exhibition Name: Echoes of the Classics: Exhibition of Ming and Qing Literati Paintings from the Xike Old Residence Collection 🕐Exhibition Time: 8.9-11.10 (Every Tuesday to Sunday, closed on Mondays) 📍Location: Suzhou Museum West Pavilion·Special Exhibition Hall·Painting and Calligraphy Hall 💰Cost per Person: No reservation required, free admission, very cost-effective, highly recommended

Ashurbanipal, known as the "Great King, the Almighty King, the Lord of Assyria." He was a poet and a scholar, a lion hunter and a warrior, who ruled the vast empire with strict control and skillfully used the power of art to demonstrate his omnipotent kingship. After his father Esarhaddon ascended to the throne, he appointed his younger son Ashurbanipal as his successor. To appease his older son Shamash-shum-ukin, he made him the king of Babylon. When Ashurbanipal came to power in 669 BC, Nineveh, the capital, was the largest city of its time, with its ruins located in present-day Mosul, Iraq. Ashurbanipal revered war and brought the Assyrian Empire to its peak. He also built the largest and most comprehensive library of his time, which housed at least ten thousand cuneiform tablets, each crafted from the finest clay. In Mesopotamia, receiving messages from the gods through dreams was a long-standing belief. Documents from 3000 BC recorded dreams that inspired kings to take action. Ashurbanipal also collected many magical spells and exorcism rituals to ward off ominous signs. After spending most of his reign in his grandfather's invincible palace, Ashurbanipal built a new palace for himself in Nineveh, called the North Palace. The beams were made of cedar wood from Lebanon, and most of the decorations celebrated his rule and achievements. Assyrian kings filled their gardens, orchards, and hunting parks with plants and animals collected from across the empire. The decorations in Assyrian palaces included scenes of tribute and violent suppression of rebellious subjects. Furniture makers adorned luxurious furniture with animal heads carved from ivory. The corners of thrones or tables often featured lion or bull heads. The expansion of the Assyrian Empire revitalized the production and trade of luxury goods and promoted the exchange of visual culture, technology, people, and ideas in the ancient Mediterranean and Middle Eastern regions. Cyprus accumulated great power and wealth through maritime trade and provided ships to the Assyrian army. In 650 BC, substitute statues became popular. The Phoenicians excelled in producing Tyrian purple, a precious purple fabric made from the mucus of sea snails. This cuneiform text recorded a formula for substituting Tyrian purple with cheaper plant dyes.

This is the preface - the craftsmen of the great country. 🌟Highlights: Focusing on more than 40 Chinese arts and crafts masters and national-level inheritors of intangible cultural heritage, more than 70 representative works/groups are selected to review the outstanding achievements of the New Soviet School techniques in the past 75 years, stitch by stitch, stroke by stroke. Feel the attainments and persistence of those who uphold the art, and get a glimpse of the charm of Su Zuo and the spirit of Su craftsmanship that have been inherited from ancient to modern times. ❤Reason for recommendation: Since the Tang and Song Dynasties, Suzhou has become a densely populated city with rich culture, culture and education, and handicrafts have become more and more prosperous. Beginning in the middle of the Ming Dynasty, literati began to guide the practice of utensil appraisal, and hundreds of craftsmen were also deeply influenced by pottery. Craftsmen refined their skills and introduced new ones. A large number of families emerged, each specializing in their own skills. Su Zuo led the domestic fashion. However, at the end of the Qing Dynasty, the current situation was turbulent and there was a lot of history. Due to the war, the craftsmen gradually withered and the skills were on the verge of being lost. In the 1950s, all kinds of wastes were revived and flourished. Thanks to the state's care and support for handicrafts, a number of important Suzhou craftsmanships were reborn through cooperative methods. Suzhou Embroidery Research Institute, Suzhou Arts and Crafts Research Institute Institute, Suzhou Redwood Carving Factory, etc. were established one after another, gathering senior craftsmen, integrating scattered resources, and assuming the responsibility of inheriting, developing and nurturing talents, so that the fire of Su Zuo can survive and never be extinguished. From the late 1970s to the 1980s, the spring breeze of reform brought about the expansion of the market and horizons. Suzhou's works flourished, craftsmen kept pace with the times, and excellent works were produced frequently. From the 1990s to the 21st century, facing market and environmental challenges, the country gradually adjusted and improved the protection, inheritance and development system of arts and crafts and intangible cultural heritage. Craftsmen also sought breakthroughs in the tension between tradition and individuality. Modern and contemporary Suzuo craftsmen, represented by masters of Chinese arts and crafts in Suzhou and national-level inheritors of intangible cultural heritage, keep pace with the times and are active in various Suzhou-style craft categories such as weaving and embroidery, sculpture, and folk crafts. They are the key to the inheritance of their respective fields. figure. They are focused and persistent, striving for excellence, choosing one thing for the rest of their lives, and never letting prosperity change their craftsmanship. Their works have reached new heights in form, subject matter, and craftsmanship; they are based on tradition, keep integrity and innovate, follow the past without following the past, and have the courage to explore new technologies. , new materials, new markets, and make unremitting efforts to integrate ancient skills into the times and daily life; they run around, call for protection, and shoulder the inheritance responsibilities in their respective fields. They serve as role models and are tireless in cultivating a group of people. Approval of new successors. They have accumulated valuable skills and spiritual wealth for the survival and development of Su Zuo, and they are well-deserved craftsmen of a great country! 📍Detailed address: Suzhou Museum (West Building) [Third Floor Above Ground] No. 399, Changjiang Road, High-tech Zone, Huqiu District, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province 🕙Business hours: July 23-November 6 (09:00-17:00) From July 2 (Tuesday) to August 31 (Saturday), 2024, the Suzhou Museum West Branch will extend its opening hours to 20:00 📝Note tips: Closed on Monday 🏝️Reservation guide: No need to make an appointment in advance for the West Building 🚗Transportation guide: 🚇: Exit 3A of Shizishan Station of Rail Transit Line 1, walk 600-700 meters inside and outside the station 🚌: Bus No. 38/33/313 Royal Garden 📝Note tips: ⭐️: The entrance to the West Building is not at the main entrance, so you need to walk around half a circle

Embark on a journey through Suzhou, where family fun and cultural enrichment go hand in hand! Dive into historical marvels, cinematic thrills, and snowy escapes perfect for every member of the clan. 🏛️ Suzhou Museum Step back in time at the Suzhou Museum, where history buffs and art lovers unite. With over 30,000 collections, including masterpieces of painting and calligraphy from the Song to Qing dynasties, it's a cultural feast for the eyes – and it's free! Engaging guides bring the past to life, making it a fantastic educational trip for kids. 🌹👨‍🏫📍204 Northeast Street, Gusu District, Suzhou City 🎬 Huayi Brothers Movie World Experience the magic of movies at Huayi Brothers Movie World. Unlike Disney or Universal, it offers a unique twist on family entertainment with less crowd and more fun. From thrilling rides to immersive theaters, it's a day-long adventure that's sure to dazzle. 🎢😊📍No. 188, Yangcheng Lake Avenue, Suzhou Industrial Park ❄️ Alps Snow Live Alps Snow Live is your winter wonderland in any season. Offering childcare services and a variety of snow sports, it's perfect for families. The gentle slopes are beginner-friendly, and the cozy accommodations make for a memorable stay. Let the kids learn to ski while you enjoy the frosty fun! ⛷️👶📍No. 7~10, Fuyoucheng Road, Taicang City, Suzhou City, Jiangsu Province 🖼️ Suzhou Museum West Hall Discover modern marvels at the Suzhou Museum West Hall. Dive into the rich tapestry of Suzhou's history through interactive exhibits and storytelling guides. It's an insightful journey through the city's modern developments with a sprinkle of traditional craftsmanship. 👍🏻📍Jiangsu Province, Suzhou City, Huqiu District, Changjiang Road 399 🌊 Suzhou Amusement Land Forest Waterworld Splash into summer at Suzhou Amusement Land Forest Waterworld! With a vast array of water slides and pools, it's the perfect escape for families looking to beat the heat. Enjoy live performances and dance to the beat of summer hits. Just watch out for the queues on the most popular rides! 🌞🎶📍No. 2, Shanshenwan Road, High-tech Zone, Suzhou City #Suzhou #SuzhouAttractions #China #ChinaTravel

Suzhou Museum's main branch is next to the Humble Administrator's Garden, where the Prince Zhong's Mansion and the Garden Museum are also located. Because the main branch requires a reservation a week in advance and is very popular, it was fully booked when we tried to make a reservation. However! The Suzhou Museum West Branch does not require a reservation! Special exhibitions are also free to visit without a reservation, so you can enjoy your time there. First Floor: Upon entering, there is an Assyrian exhibition with a few large stones. At first, I thought that was all the Assyrian exhibit had to offer. The Suzhou History Exhibition Hall mainly features ancient exhibits. Second Floor: Upon going upstairs, the first thing you see is the Suzhou Craft Hall (which we briefly appreciated later), but we went directly to the Assyrian Hall. The Assyrian Hall mainly features the special exhibition "The King of Assyria: Ashurbanipal." This exhibition tells the extraordinary story of Ashurbanipal through cuneiform clay tablets from his palace and library, as well as numerous artifacts excavated by archaeologists in the Mesopotamian region. The innovative display and new discoveries narrate the turbulent story of Ashurbanipal's reign, the splendor of his palace and library, the disastrous rebellion of his brother, and his ruthless suppression of all rebels. The final unit of the exhibition looks to the future, aiming to protect the country's history for future generations, including the story of Ashurbanipal. Ashurbanipal was the last great king of Assyria, with the Assyrian heartland located in what is now Iraq. In the 7th century BC, during his reign, the Assyrian Empire reached its peak, covering a vast area from Egypt to western Iran. His capital, Nineveh (now within Mosul), was the largest city of its time. The exquisite stone reliefs that decorated the walls of his palace are among the most important exhibits in the British Museum. These reliefs showcase Ashurbanipal's prowess as a ruler, including his military victories and spectacular royal lion hunts. (My brother remarked: Lions 🦁 were once on the brink of extinction ) The third floor features an exhibition of new Suzhou-style works, which we only quickly toured. It would be exhausting to look at everything in detail, but the rest seats at the Suzhou Museum West Branch are quite luxurious. Free admission without reservation, highly recommended. It is expected to be on display until next summer, similar to the Egyptian exhibition in Shanghai. However, the Egyptian exhibition in Shanghai costs 148 yuan, and tickets for the entire month are released on the 1st of each month and are quickly sold out. So, if you can't get a reservation for the Egyptian exhibition at the Shanghai Museum, why not visit the Assyrian Hall at the nearby Suzhou Museum West Branch?

Compared to the main pavilion nestled in a Suzhou-style garden, the West Pavilion, with its robust style, does seem a bit ordinary. But after touring it with some prejudice, I can only say it was totally worth it! If you, like me, want to take a glance at Suzhou's historical and cultural heritage, then the West Pavilion is definitely the best choice. 【Ticket Information】 Free and no reservation required! (Compared to the main pavilion which is always fully booked, this is amazing) 🕙 Opening Hours: Tuesday to Sunday 9:00-17:00 (Note: Entry stops at 16:00, so visit early!) 📝 Tips: The air conditioning in the West Pavilion is too cold! Please bring a jacket and a thermos if you are sensitive to cold! ⏳ Visiting Time: Quick tour: 1-2 hours In-depth tour: 4-6 hours 🚉 Transportation Guide: Get off at Shizishan Station on Suzhou Metro Line 1 or Line 3 【About Suzhou Museum West Pavilion】 The West Pavilion has a building area of nearly 50,000 square meters, with an exhibition area of 13,000 square meters, and over 2,000 pieces/sets of cultural relics (don't think it's too few, it's definitely enough to see) It is divided into several exhibition halls: Suzhou History Exhibition, Suzhou Craftsmanship Hall, Calligraphy and Painting Hall, International Cooperation Hall, Suzhou Life Hall, and Exploration Experience Hall. 【About the Exhibitions】 1. Suzhou History Exhibition (Pure Jiangnan) (1st floor) The exhibition is divided into four parts according to the timeline, showing the ten-thousand-year transformation of Suzhou from a barren land to a paradise on earth. Wu Zixu, who turned gray overnight, was its founder, and Emperor Wen of Sui, Yang Jian, renamed it Suzhou. This gentle water town was also once brave and martial; Xiang Yu, the Overlord of Western Chu, once raised an army here against the Qin. The private gardens built by frustrated officials to express their sorrow for the passing seasons have also earned Suzhou gardens the reputation of being the best in the world. 👍 Most Recommended: Sword of King Wu Yuzhi: The bronze sword with the most inscriptions in existence, not only recording the succession of the Wu kingdom but also correcting historical errors in the "Spring and Autumn Annals." (Picture 3) Jun Kiln Three-legged Basin with Drum Nails: The largest pen wash from the Song Dynasty, well-preserved. (Picture 4) Jade Burial Ornaments: From the tomb of a Wu king over two thousand years ago during the Spring and Autumn period, possibly an early form of the jade burial suits of the Han Dynasty, though not as magnificent. (Picture 5) 2. Suzhou Craftsmanship Hall (Suzhou Craftsmanship) (2nd floor) It is said that Suzhou gardens are the best in the world, and Suzhou craftsmanship is also unparalleled. The Suzhou Craftsmanship exhibition includes a wide variety of items: carvings (jade carving/ivory carving/bamboo carving/wood carving/lacquer carving/inkstone carving/stone carving), gold and silverware, ethnic musical instruments, clay sculptures, fan surfaces, and plain brocade. Looking at these exquisite small items, I finally understand why Cao Xueqin called Suzhou "the most affluent and elegant place in the world." 👍 Most Recommended: Huanghuali Dragon-pattern Twelve-panel Screen: Huge in size but not lacking in delicacy, serving both practical and aesthetic purposes. (Picture 6) Clay Sculpture Miniatures: Small clay figurines performing wonderful scenes from traditional Chinese opera. (Picture 7) Miniature Musical Instruments: 24 miniature instruments, though I couldn't recognize them all, they look particularly beautiful and cute when displayed together. (Picture 8) 3. International Cooperation Hall (2nd floor) Allows you to appreciate world civilizations without leaving the country. The exhibitions in this hall are not permanent. When I visited, there was a special exhibition of ancient Greek artifacts from the British Museum. 4. Calligraphy and Painting Hall (3rd floor) Although the exhibition features modern Suzhou embroidery works, the artists' exquisite skills still leave visitors in awe. 👍 Most Recommended: "Portrait of a Grape Girl": If it weren't in the Suzhou embroidery section, I would have thought it was a sketch. (Picture 9) "Double Cats": Two lifelike kittens, if not told they were embroidered, I would have thought they were taxidermy. (Picture 10) Due to time constraints, I couldn't visit the Suzhou Life Hall and the Exploration Experience Hall, but this gives me a reason to return to Suzhou. After a tour, although the West Pavilion lacks the gentle exterior, it has elegant displays. It may not have as many collections as the main pavilion, but it allowed me to see the rise and prosperity of the first heroic state in Jiangnan through thousands of years of history. I'm just glad I came!

🏛️Suzhou Museum is particularly famous because of Pei Luming Went to the main museum. The building itself is more interesting than the collection. In addition, it has been very hot these days. There are many open spaces in Subo, so it is very hot. 🏛️The West Building has also recently extended its closing time to 6 o'clock The West Building... It’s so nice to visit~ ‼ ️No reservation is required for the West Building, there will be no queue if you arrive at 5pm The West Building is newly opened and has sufficient air conditioning in the summer. 🤳The West Pavilion is also great for taking pictures, it has a very modern Suzhou feel 🗡️King Wu’s sword is in the west pavilion! Not a copy~ ⚱️Several collections of Subo refrigerator magnets are basically in the West Building 🪕Internet celebrity piano, drum, silk string musical instrument ornaments are also in the West Hall 🏬The display in the West Building is different from other museums, a bit like a shopping mall Ming and Qing Furniture Exhibitions, open style like visiting a furniture store Cleaned in the Ming and Qing Dynasties, except that there is no price tag, the display looks like a luxury goods counter The display of pottery and porcelain is also displayed on multiple levels, which is also very artistic.

"The King of Assyria: Ashurbanipal" special exhibition is now open at the West Gallery of the Suzhou Museum. This special exhibition, through 149 pieces (sets) of artifacts including reliefs, cuneiform clay tablets, and bronze ornaments, as well as the launch of five series of themed cultural and creative products by the surrounding pop-up stores, leads the audience back to the Mesopotamian plain over 2600 years ago, approaching the powerful Assyrian Empire. This is the third collaboration between the Suzhou Museum and the British Museum, shifting the perspective of world civilization history from the Mediterranean coast to the Tigris-Euphrates river basin. The Assyrian Empire, established in the 7th century BC by the Assyrians in the Tigris-Euphrates river basin, was a great empire that spanned Western Asia and North Africa, with its capital at Nineveh (present-day Iraq). The empire reached its zenith during the reign of King Ashurbanipal. The special exhibition, focusing on the monarch of the Assyrian Empire's heyday—Ashurbanipal, takes the audience to appreciate artifacts full of vitality such as vessels, reliefs, and cuneiform clay tablets, and to experience the splendor of palaces, spectacular sculptures, exotic gardens, and libraries rich in collections. It also allows the audience to understand the Assyrian Empire, which was geographically located along the legendary Euphrates and Tigris rivers, and chronologically concurrent with China's Spring and Autumn period.

Suzhou Museum West Pavilion is a branch of Suzhou Museum. On September 25, 2021, the Suzhou Museum West Pavilion opened for trial operation. The West Pavilion is located at Shishan Plaza in the High-tech Zone of Suzhou City and was designed by GMP Architects, the top-ranked architectural design firm in Germany. The building covers an area of 48,365 square meters, with an exhibition area of 13,391 square meters, displaying over 2,100 pieces/sets of cultural relics, including jade cong from the Liangzhu period, the Tang-Five Dynasties' gold-scripted 'Lotus Sutra' on blue paper, a Song Dynasty Jun kiln tripod wash with drum nails, a Yuan Dynasty gray pottery loquat tribute vessel, and a Shunzhi period 'Heavenly Maiden Scattering Flowers' bowl. The architecture of the West Pavilion draws on the layout of streets and alleys in the water towns of Jiangnan, inheriting the classics while highlighting distinctive regional features. The permanent exhibition halls include the General History Exhibition Hall, Suzhou Craftsmanship Hall, Exploration Experience Hall, International Cooperation Hall, and Suzhou Color Life Hall.

Compared to the bustling main hall of the Suzhou Museum, the West Branch located at Lion Mountain Plaza has fewer visitors, more abundant exhibits, convenient reservation, and a much better visiting experience. The first floor 'Pure Jiangnan: Suzhou Historical Exhibition' is the basic display, showcasing Suzhou's history from the Old Stone Age on Sanshan Island to the outbreak of the Xinhai Revolution, spanning ten thousand years. The second floor is the 'Craft Memories of Suzhou: Suzhou Craftsmanship Hall,' displaying fine Suzhou craftsmanship from the Song and Yuan dynasties to the present day, including jade carving, bamboo carving, Suzhou embroidery, and Taohuawu woodblock New Year pictures, which are traditional crafts. The second floor also houses the 'International Cooperation Hall,' where the current special exhibition is the third phase of the 'History of World Civilizations' series exhibition 'King of Assyria: Ashurbanipal,' in collaboration with the British Museum. The third floor features the 'Painting and Calligraphy of Suzhou: Collection of Historical Paintings and Calligraphy Exhibition.' The current special exhibition is 'Seeing the Virtuous and Thinking of Equality - Special Exhibition of Ming and Qing Portrait Paintings.' The underground floor houses the 'Suzhou Colored Life Hall,' which fully exhibits the ancient charm of Jiangnan. After visiting the museum, you can climb the Lion Mountain in front to exercise and enjoy the view. Unfortunately, it's too late for this visit, but I'll leave it for next time.

The history of Suzhou is very ancient. The 'Pure Jiangnan' exhibition hall of the museum (West Wing) introduces in detail the social development and changes of this land of fish and rice, a place of prosperity and wealth, through a large number of unearthed cultural relics and illustrative texts. From the ancient Huazhang and the charm of Wu and Yue, to the Qin and Han dynasties' management and the grandeur of Sui and Tang, to the bustling metropolis and the joyous land of the world, it truly lives up to the saying 'Above there is heaven, below there are Suzhou and Hangzhou', a place everyone yearns for. The museum has an underground parking lot, admission is free, but it requires an online reservation in advance, and entry is with an ID card. It is very much worth a visit.